Yoga & it's benefits...

What types of movement do you like to do? I grew up playing all types of sports - especially bat and ball sports. My biggest love is softball and I've always played all my sports with a high competitive energy. A few years ago, this all stopped for me as I had worn a part of my body out and I had to have a hip replacement. Slowing down was not part of my repertoire but something had to give. Learning to have a quality of life with my body was a couple of years in the making and I now can admit that I could play sport again...socially! I have recently found yoga to be something my body and my mind really likes and some of the poses are still quite challenging and make me giggle but I'm determined to learn how to do them and also learn why they are good for me.

The essence of yoga is about balance and practicing yoga focuses on the healthy functioning of the body and mind. The body, mind and spirit are all treated as equally important. It is so much more than breathing and poses as it works with the energies within us. More freedom is created in the body and the mind and so it comes down to breathing, relaxation, a wholesome and nutritious diet, positive thinking and being in the present moment (meditation). It is also helps you develop honesty, compassion, loving kindness, generosity and contentment. Regular practice increases energy levels, supports a balanced mindset, reduces stress and fatigue. Yoga brings life to life and is about having positive everyday living.

I always feel it's a space to unwind, to be silent and to just be in the moment. I love going to a yoga studio too and I always go with my girlfriend, Sami, when I visit home in Adelaide. I love that this is something we share together.

How do you find a yoga community near you? Google, Facebook and Instagram are a great place to start and also ask around in your network.